A Quarter Century in the Auto Business

My name is Basavraj. I have been riding autos for twenty-five years, living right here in Malleshwaram on 8th main. I've been in the auto business for so many years, and it has been a smooth journey. I have not encountered any major troubles or issues. I start my day at 7:30 am and finish by 8:30 pm. I usually eat at home since it's nearby, but otherwise I visit a local restaurant for a meal.

Malleshwaram's Changing Face

There haven't been significant changes in Malleshwaram apart from the obvious ones—traffic and crowds. The neighborhood remains largely the same. I know not everyone appreciates people coming in from other places because they feel the charm of Malleshwaram is fading, but I have no issues with it. I also travel to different places, and we are all from one country. I don't see any harm in other people coming into Malleshwaram and settling here. If you come here and make an effort to learn the language, that is sufficient for me, because it benefits everyone. Communication improves, and we can understand each other better.

A Shopping Destination for All

Malleshwaram is known for having everything you need. People from all over Bangalore come just to shop here, especially the middle class. Yes, there is a distinction between classes and castes, but that is common everywhere. It isn't something one can change so easily. Life is going on, and I have to take what it brings me. Everything else is out of my control.

Brotherhood at the Auto Stand

All of us auto drivers are friends. We gather at the stand and spend time together when we don't have passengers. We celebrate festivals together—Rama Navami and Rajyotsava—we have a strong community, and it's a genuine friendship.

Respect is a Two-Way Street

People are respectful, but it goes both ways. I give them the same amount of respect they give me, and vice versa. If they are rude and don't speak courteously, I don't go out of my way to show them additional respect. But I am content. I appreciate my life, and I enjoy my work. Everything is progressing well.